Wicomico Co. Public Schools aim to return students for hybrid in-person learning in February
WICOMICO CO., Md. — In response to Maryland Governor Larry Hogan’s announcement, “urging” all 24 of Maryland’s school systems to return to “hybrid” or “in-person” learning by March 1st, the Superintendent of Wicomico County Public Schools announced Thursday that all students in the county will begin to return to schools in stages starting in February.
Superintendent Dr. Donna Hanlin announced that starting the week of February 2nd, students in the county will return to schools in stages. This comes after state health and education officials shared adjusted guidance for school systems, along with additional research indicating that it is possible to have schools safely open for students.
Here is WCPS’ current return schedule:
Week of February 2nd: Hybrid in-person instruction resumes for students who were in schools last fall in small groups or in grades Prekindergarten to 2nd Grade. Teachers and other school staff members serving these students will be back in school buildings as of January 25th.
Week of February 8th: Hybrid in-person instruction begins for grades 3-8. Teachers and other school staff members serving these students will be back in school buildings as of February 1st.
Week of February 16th: Hybrid in-person instruction begins for grades 9-12. Teachers and other school staff members serving these students will be back in school buildings as of February 8th.
The superintendent notes that this return plan will be done with physical distancing, mask wearing and other important health and safety precautions for students and staff.
School officials say fully virtual learning will still be an option this school year for students in all grade levels. We’re told parents who had previously committed to the virtual option for a student and now wish to change to the hybrid option should communicate with their child’s school. The school will work with the family on the request.
Governor Hogan’s announcement also encouraged teachers to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Wicomico school officials say whether to receive the vaccine is a personal choice, but they encourage staff members to consider getting vaccinated for enhanced protection from COVID-19 for themselves and the people with whom they live, work and interact.
Dr. Hanlin is asking everyone to please do everything they can to get through this public health crisis as soon as possible and as safely as possible.
